Dr. Sharon Groves joined Auburn’s team in August 2015 as its Vice-President for Partner Engagement. In that capacity Sharon engages with movements, leaders, and organizations doing justice work grounded in faith and moral courage. Prior to joining Auburn’s staff, Sharon served as a Senior Fellow for Auburn Seminary working at the intersection of faith, LGBTQ equality, and social justice, specializing in breaking down cultural barriers between those on opposing sides of the “culture wars.” Sharon is the former Director of the Religion and Faith (RFP) Program at HRC, where she worked from 2005-2014. Under her leadership, Sharon doubled the RFP staff, built a scholarship and mentorship program for LGBTQA religious scholars, engaged in breakthrough conversations with conservative religious leaders, and oversaw statewide faith organizing efforts in Oregon, Illinois, Rhode Island, Maine, Maryland and Washington State.

Sharon received her Ph.D. in English Literature from the University of Maryland in 2000 and has furthered her theological education through extensive course work at Chicago Theological Seminary, Wesley Theological Seminary, and the Shalem Institute for Spiritual Formation. She is an active lay member at her local congregation, All Souls Church in Washington, D.C. Currently Sharon splits her time between New York and her home in DC where she lives with her spouse Ann and her very mischievous puppy, YoYo.